New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A05986

Introduced
2/25/25  
Refer
2/25/25  

Caption

Establishes the "public interest legal services loan assistance fund" of the state of New York (to consist of a portion of bar examination fees and other funds appropriated by the legislature therefor and such other monies as may be credited or otherwise transferred from any other fund or source pursuant to law, including voluntary contributions); provides for administration of such fund to assist public service attorneys practicing public interest law in repaying their student loans; defines certain terms and adds other related provisions.

Summary

Bill A05986 establishes the 'public interest legal services loan assistance fund' in New York to assist public service attorneys with repaying their student loans. The fund will be financed through a portion of bar examination fees and other appropriated funds. The legislation aims to address the significant student loan debt burdens faced by attorneys working in public interest roles, such as prosecutors and public defenders, which often leads to their departure from public service due to low salaries. By providing financial assistance, the bill seeks to retain qualified attorneys in these critical positions, thereby enhancing the quality of legal services provided to the public.

Impact

The bill will amend the state finance law and judiciary law to create a dedicated fund for loan assistance, which will directly impact public service attorneys in New York. It will allow eligible attorneys to apply for reimbursement of their student loan expenses, thereby easing their financial burden and promoting retention in public service roles. This change is expected to improve the overall capacity of the criminal and civil justice systems in New York by ensuring that experienced attorneys remain in public interest positions.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill A05986 appears to be supportive, as it addresses a critical issue affecting public interest attorneys. Discussions have highlighted the importance of retaining skilled legal professionals in public service roles, and the bill is seen as a necessary step to mitigate the financial challenges faced by these attorneys. However, there may be concerns regarding the adequacy of funding and the potential impact on the state budget.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the funding sources for the loan assistance program, particularly regarding the reliance on bar examination fees and whether this will be sufficient to meet the needs of all eligible attorneys. Some stakeholders may argue about the fairness of using these fees for this purpose, while others may express concerns about the long-term sustainability of the fund and its impact on the overall budget for legal services in the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

NY A00735

Establishes the "public interest legal services loan assistance fund" of the state of New York (to consist of a portion of bar examination fees and other funds appropriated by the legislature therefor and such other monies as may be credited or otherwise transferred from any other fund or source pursuant to law, including voluntary contributions); provides for administration of such fund to assist public service attorneys practicing public interest law in repaying their student loans; defines certain terms and adds other related provisions.

NY HB1158

Prohibit the use of public funds for campaigning or other partisan activity, and to provide a penalty therefor.

NY S407

Provides exception for Legal Services of New Jersey and other public interest organizations from confidentiality of certain eviction actions.

NY S09117

Establishes the small homeowner rehabilitation revolving loan program administered by the New York state housing finance agency consisting of moneys appropriated by the legislature, repayments of principal and interest on loans made from the program, interest earnings, private or philanthropic contributions, and any other moneys made available for its purposes; authorizes the New York state housing finance agency to make low-interest loans, deferred payment loans, or forgivable loans, or a combination thereof, to eligible small homeowners for eligible rehabilitation and repair projects; provides for eligibility requirements and tenant protections.

NY S08626

Guarantees localities the ability to use state funds to provide public benefits to non-citizens, including prevention services, adoption subsidy, kinship guardianship assistance, after-care services for youth and families involved with child welfare, child care assistance, and all other public services and benefits.

NY A09413

Guarantees localities the ability to use state funds to provide public benefits to non-citizens, including prevention services, adoption subsidy, kinship guardianship assistance, after-care services for youth and families involved with child welfare, child care assistance, and all other public services and benefits.

NY HF592

Medical assistance, long-term services and supports, and other public assistance program application report to legislature required.

NY HB386

Civil Legal Assistance Fund; specify funding of from certain sources.

NY A01279

Exempts aid derived from funding from childcare stabilization grants, childcare desert funding, or other non-recurring funding, issued by the office of children and family services to childcare providers from income for the purpose of determining aid provided pursuant to public assistance programs.

NY S02022

Exempts aid derived from funding from childcare stabilization grants, childcare desert funding, or other non-recurring funding, issued by the office of children and family services to childcare providers from income for the purpose of determining aid provided pursuant to public assistance programs.

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